12 Ways to Protect Your Home While You’re Away

Alphabets Sounds Video

share us on:

The lesson outlines 12 practical strategies to enhance home security while you’re away, emphasizing the importance of vigilance and simple preventive measures. Key recommendations include securing valuables, maintaining property appearance, using strong locks, and creating the illusion of occupancy to deter potential burglars. By implementing these tips, homeowners can significantly reduce the risk of burglary and protect their belongings.

12 Ways to Protect Your Home While You’re Away

Did you know that around 1.5 million burglaries happened in the US in 2017? That’s a lot! But don’t worry, there are simple and effective ways to protect your home from burglars, even if you can’t afford an expensive security system. Let’s explore some tips to make your home a safer place.

1. Hide Valuables When Strangers Are Around

When you have workers like plumbers or electricians in your home, make sure to hide valuables like cash, jewelry, and electronics. While most workers are honest, it’s better to be safe than sorry. Always check reviews or get recommendations before hiring someone.

2. Keep Your Phone Quiet

Some burglars call your landline to see if anyone’s home. If no one answers, they might think the house is empty. Keep your phone on silent or low volume to confuse them.

3. Install a Reliable Lock

Burglars can break into a home in just a few minutes, often through the front door. Use a strong lock, like a grade 1 or grade 2 deadbolt, to make it harder for them. Consider using a smart lock for extra security.

4. Secure Your Windows

First-floor windows are a common entry point for burglars. Consider installing grills or using protective film, security screens, or shatterproof glass to reinforce them.

5. Maintain Your Property

Keep your lawn tidy and paths clear to show that someone lives there. Trim bushes near entrances to eliminate hiding spots for burglars. Make sure your house number is visible for easy identification by the police.

6. Use Signs to Deter Thieves

Put up signs that say “Protected Property” to make burglars think twice before attempting a break-in.

7. Dispose of Boxes Properly

When you buy expensive items like a new TV, don’t leave the boxes outside. Tear them up before throwing them away to avoid attracting burglars.

8. Pretend Someone’s Home

If you notice someone suspicious when leaving your house, turn around and wave as if someone is still inside. This can deter potential burglars.

9. Check Your Locks

If you see scratches on your locks, it might mean someone tried to break in. Check your locks regularly and be cautious when entering your home.

10. Let Sunlight In

Closed curtains for days can signal that no one is home. Leave them slightly open to create the illusion that someone is there.

11. Use Plants as Barriers

Plant thorny bushes like roses near windows and fences to make it physically challenging for burglars to break in.

12. Be Careful with Phone Calls

Don’t give out personal information over the phone, especially to unfamiliar service companies. Burglars might use this info to plan a break-in when you’re not home.

By following these tips, you can make your home a safer place and discourage burglars from targeting your property. Stay safe and share these tips with your friends!

  1. Reflect on the article’s suggestions for home security. Which tip do you find most surprising or innovative, and why?
  2. Consider your current home security measures. How do they compare to the strategies mentioned in the article?
  3. Have you ever experienced a security breach or attempted break-in? How might the tips from the article have helped in that situation?
  4. Think about the balance between security and convenience. How do you prioritize these aspects when implementing home security measures?
  5. Which of the article’s tips would you be most likely to implement, and what steps would you take to do so?
  6. Discuss the role of technology in home security as suggested in the article. How comfortable are you with using smart technology for security purposes?
  7. Reflect on the importance of community awareness and involvement in home security. How can neighbors support each other in creating a safer environment?
  8. Consider the psychological impact of feeling secure in your home. How do the strategies in the article contribute to a sense of safety and peace of mind?
  1. Role-Playing Scenarios

    Imagine you’re going on vacation and need to secure your home. Create a role-playing scenario with a partner where one of you is the homeowner and the other is a potential burglar. Discuss and demonstrate how you would implement the tips from the article to protect your home.

  2. Home Security Poster

    Create a poster that highlights the top five home security tips from the article. Use images and catchy slogans to make your poster engaging. Display your poster in the classroom to share your knowledge with others.

  3. Security Device Research

    Research different types of locks and window security devices mentioned in the article. Prepare a short presentation for the class on how these devices work and their effectiveness in preventing burglaries.

  4. Neighborhood Watch Plan

    Work in groups to develop a neighborhood watch plan. Discuss how you can use the tips from the article to create a safer community. Present your plan to the class and discuss how it could be implemented in real life.

  5. Creative Writing: A Day in the Life of a Burglar

    Write a short story from the perspective of a burglar who encounters the security measures discussed in the article. Describe how these measures deter the burglar and what they learn from the experience.

HomeA place where a person or family lives and feels safe and comfortable. – In social studies, we often discuss how different cultures define what makes a place a home.

BurglarsIndividuals who illegally enter buildings with the intent to commit theft. – Critical thinking can help us understand the motivations and methods used by burglars to prevent such crimes.

SecurityMeasures taken to protect a place or ensure safety. – Many communities invest in security systems to protect their homes and public spaces.

ValuablesItems that are worth a lot of money or have significant personal importance. – It’s important to keep valuables in a secure location to prevent loss or theft.

LocksDevices used to secure doors, gates, or containers to prevent unauthorized access. – Installing strong locks is a basic step in enhancing the security of a property.

WindowsOpenings in a building that allow light and air to enter, often made of glass. – Ensuring that windows are locked can help deter burglars from entering a home.

PropertyAnything that is owned by a person or entity, including land and buildings. – Understanding property rights is a fundamental aspect of social studies.

SignsIndicators or notices that convey information or warnings. – Posting signs about security measures can deter potential burglars from targeting a property.

PlantsLiving organisms that grow in the ground, often used for decoration or food. – In urban planning, the placement of plants can enhance the aesthetic and environmental quality of a community.

InformationData or knowledge communicated or received concerning a particular fact or circumstance. – Access to accurate information is crucial for making informed decisions in social studies.

All Video Lessons

Login your account

Please login your account to get started.

Don't have an account?

Register your account

Please sign up your account to get started.

Already have an account?